Austin Wrongful Death Lawyer

Lost a loved one to negligence in Austin? Our wrongful death attorneys help families find justice and financial security.

Austin Wrongful Death Lawyer

Why You Need a Austin Wrongful Death Lawyer

When you lose a family member due to someone else's negligence, no amount of money can truly compensate for your loss. But a wrongful death lawsuit can provide financial security for your family, hold responsible parties accountable, and give you a sense of justice. Our Austin wrongful death attorneys handle these sensitive cases with compassion while aggressively pursuing every dollar your family deserves.

Texas wrongful death law allows surviving spouses, children, and parents to pursue claims against those whose negligence caused their loved one's death. Separately, a survival action can recover what the deceased person could have recovered had they lived. Understanding these complex claims requires experienced legal guidance.

In Austin, wrongful deaths result from car accidents, truck accidents, workplace incidents, medical malpractice, defective products, and other causes. Each type of case has unique challenges, and our attorneys have experience across all wrongful death categories.

Wrongful Death Statistics in Austin

Austin and Travis County see thousands of motor vehicle accidents each year. Understanding the scope of the problem shows why experienced legal representation is essential:

19,847 Total Crashes (2023)
87 Fatal Crashes
412 Serious Injury Crashes

Leading Cause: Failure to control speed

These statistics represent real people whose lives were impacted by negligent drivers. If you've been injured, our Austin attorneys are here to help you get the compensation you deserve.

Dangerous Roads for Wrongful Deaths in Austin

Understanding where accidents happen most frequently can help you stay safe—and helps our attorneys build stronger cases when accidents do occur. Here are Austin's most dangerous roads:

Interstate 35 (I-35)

Texas's deadliest interstate runs through downtown Austin. The stretch between US-290 and SH-71 sees over 100 crashes annually due to heavy congestion and construction.

High-risk areas: I-35 at US-290 interchange, I-35 at Ben White Blvd, I-35 Upper/Lower Deck split

MoPac Expressway (Loop 1)

High-speed commuter corridor with frequent rear-end collisions during rush hour. The toll lanes create dangerous merge points.

High-risk areas: MoPac at 2222 interchange, MoPac at Parmer Lane, MoPac at 360 junction

US Highway 183

Major north-south artery connecting Cedar Park to Austin-Bergstrom Airport. High crash rates near shopping centers and interchanges.

High-risk areas: 183 at Braker Lane, 183 at Research Blvd, 183 at I-35

US Highway 290 East

Growing corridor to Manor and Elgin sees increasing accidents as development outpaces road improvements.

High-risk areas: 290 at I-35, 290 at SH-130, 290 at FM 973

State Highway 71

High-speed highway to Austin-Bergstrom Airport with fatal crashes at major intersections.

High-risk areas: SH-71 at US-183, SH-71 at SH-130, SH-71 at Ben White Blvd

Why Choose a Local Austin Attorney?

A Austin wrongful death attorney understands local courts, local juries, and the emotional needs of local families. We know that each wrongful death case represents a real person with a real family, not just a legal matter. Our approach combines aggressive legal representation with genuine compassion.

We handle wrongful death cases on contingency, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation. This allows families to focus on grieving and healing while we handle the legal complexities.

Types of Wrongful Death Cases

Vehicle Accident Deaths

Car, truck, and motorcycle crashes are leading causes of wrongful death, often involving multiple liable parties.

Workplace Fatalities

Construction accidents, industrial incidents, and workplace violence may support wrongful death claims beyond workers' compensation.

Medical Malpractice Deaths

When medical errors or negligence cause patient deaths, families can pursue wrongful death claims against providers.

Product Liability Deaths

Defective vehicles, medications, medical devices, and consumer products can cause fatal injuries.

Premises Liability Deaths

Dangerous property conditions, inadequate security, and negligent maintenance can cause fatal accidents.

Criminal Act Deaths

Victims of violent crimes can pursue civil wrongful death claims separate from criminal prosecution.

Medical Care After a Wrongful Death in Austin

Getting proper medical care after an accident is crucial—both for your health and your legal case. Austin has excellent medical facilities for treating accident injuries:

Dell Seton Medical Center at The University of Texas

1500 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701

Trauma Level: Level I

Specialties: Trauma, Neurosurgery, Burn Care

St. David's Medical Center

919 E 32nd St, Austin, TX 78705

Trauma Level: Level II

Specialties: Cardiac Care, Orthopedics, Stroke Center

Ascension Seton Medical Center Austin

1201 W 38th St, Austin, TX 78705

Trauma Level: Level II

Specialties: Orthopedics, Heart Care, Cancer Treatment

St. David's South Austin Medical Center

901 W Ben White Blvd, Austin, TX 78704

Trauma Level: Level III

Specialties: Emergency Care, Orthopedics, Women's Services

Important: Always seek medical attention after any accident, even if you feel fine. Some injuries don't show symptoms immediately. Medical documentation also strengthens your legal case.

Texas Wrongful Death Laws

Understanding Texas law is crucial for maximizing your recovery. Here are key legal principles affecting wrongful death cases:

The Legal Process for Wrongful Deaths in Travis County

Understanding how the legal system works in Travis County can help set expectations for your case:

Travis County Courthouse

Address: 1000 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78701

District Courts: 126th, 167th, 200th, 201st, 250th, 261st, 299th, 331st, 345th, 353rd, 390th, 403rd, 419th, 427th, 450th, 459th District Courts

Filing: Travis County District Clerk's Office

Typical Case Timeline

Personal injury cases in Travis County typically take 12-24 months from filing to trial, though complex cases may take longer.

Our attorneys regularly appear in Travis County courts and understand local procedures, judges, and what works with local juries. This experience helps us navigate your case efficiently and effectively.

Compensation for Austin Wrongful Death Victims

Victims of wrongful deaths in Austin may be entitled to significant compensation including:

Medical Expenses

Emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and all ongoing treatment costs

Lost Income

Current lost wages, future lost earnings, reduced earning capacity, and lost benefits

Pain & Suffering

Physical pain, emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and loss of enjoyment of life

Property Damage

Vehicle repair or replacement, personal property damage, and rental car expenses

Frequently Asked Questions About Austin Wrongful Deaths

Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Texas?

The surviving spouse, children, and parents of the deceased can file wrongful death claims in Texas. If no family members file within three months, the estate's representative can file on behalf of all beneficiaries.

What compensation is available in wrongful death cases?

Wrongful death damages include loss of financial support, loss of companionship and consortium, mental anguish of survivors, loss of inheritance, and funeral expenses. Survival actions add the deceased's pain and suffering and medical expenses before death.

How long do I have to file a wrongful death lawsuit?

Texas has a two-year statute of limitations for wrongful death claims, running from the date of death. However, gathering evidence and building a strong case takes time, so consulting an attorney promptly is important.

Can I file a wrongful death claim if there's a criminal case?

Yes. Criminal and civil cases are separate. You don't need a criminal conviction to pursue civil wrongful death claims, and you can receive civil compensation regardless of criminal case outcomes.

What causes wrongful deaths in Austin?

In Austin, wrongful deaths commonly result from traffic accidents on roads like Interstate 35 (I-35), MoPac Expressway (Loop 1), US Highway 183 and US Highway 290 East, workplace accidents, medical errors, and violent crimes. Each type of case requires different investigation and legal strategies.

How are wrongful death cases valued?

Courts consider the deceased's age, health, earning capacity, and relationship to survivors. The value of lost financial support, household services, guidance, and companionship are calculated. Expert economists often testify about future losses.

How long do wrongful death cases take?

Wrongful death cases typically take 18-36 months due to their complexity, emotional nature, and high stakes. Cases requiring extensive investigation or expert testimony take longer. We work to resolve cases as efficiently as possible while ensuring maximum recovery.

Do I pay attorney fees upfront for a wrongful death case?

No. We handle wrongful death cases on contingency, meaning we advance all costs and only get paid if we recover compensation. Our fee is a percentage of the recovery, allowing families to pursue justice without financial burden.

Injured in Austin? Get Help Now

Our experienced Austin wrongful death attorneys are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. Free consultation—no fees unless we win.

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